A Community of Faith With a Place for You! A place to belong... A place to believe... A place to become!

STEEPLE NOTES 5300 S. Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX

APRIL 2014

Holy Week Worship Services Help Us Experience Fullness of Christ’s Passion Sunday Sermons on April 6, 13, and 20 will examine the days leading up to Christ’s resurrection. Join our family of faith each Sunday for worship.

Easter Sunday can’t be fully understood and celebrated without God’s people experiencing the seven days leading to Christ’s Resurrection. St. John’s pastoral team and church laity invite you to participate in the following Holy Week worship services: Sunday, April 13: Passion Sunday worship services at 8:45 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11:15 a.m. Thursday, April 17: 6:30 p.m.,Maundy Thursday: Remembering the Lord’s Last Supper, Community Life Building. Friday, April 18: 6:30 p.m., Good Friday: Remembering the Lord’s Sacrificial Atonement, Sanctuary. Saturday, April 19: 7 p.m., Holy Saturday: The Historic Christian Easter Vigil; a 2-hour service that begins under the bell tower. Sunday, April 20: Easter Celebration in all three worship services-8:45 a.m., Traditional; 10 a.m., Contemporary; and 11:15 a.m., Traditional. Bring fresh flowers to festoon the crosses; Easter lilies will adorn the altar areas (see related story, Page 2).

Spring Planting!

HOLY COMMUNION

Most of you have noticed the new plantings that have been accomplished at St. John’s (see photo, Page 6) . All of the work is part of a master landscape plan developed by our friends at Gill’s Nursery and adopted by the Board of Trustees. As funds become available, the church will continue to implement the master landscape plan. So far, two “Garden Parties” have been held to work on campus improvements. Thanks so much to these volunteers. One St. John’s member has committed to provide leadership for the implementation of the master plan for the Courtyard area this summer.

One of the Sacraments in the United Methodist Church is Holy Communion. Holy Communion is celebrated at St. John’s on the first Sunday of each month at all worship services. All who desire a closer walk with our Lord and Savior are welcomed at the table on Sunday, April 6, 2014. Any member who would like to serve this summer or fall as a Communion steward at either the 8:45 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. traditional service is invited to contact Chris Garcia, Traditional Worship Team member, at 991-2784.

(Story continued on Page 6)

Steeple Notes

1

APRIL 2014

From Pen to Paper ...by Pastor Ryan Barnett Looking Ahead The cost to rehabilitate the facility was simply beyond the reach of the congregation. The cause for these congregational downsizings is complex. I am sure that there isn’t one single reason that led to their woes. However, they all share at least two common denominators. 1) At some point, they stopped bringing new people into the Kingdom and their church. Churches – Christianity for that matter – are all one generation from extinction. We simply cannot ever stop growing. If a church isn’t growing, it is dying. 2) The church lost the ability to keep up with aging facilities. During lean times, one of the easiest budget areas to cut is the maintenance budget. Eventually, all that deferred maintenance catches up with you. If you don’t address it when you can, you may find the cost of surviving to be overwhelming. The reason I am sharing all this with you is not to depress you! I want you to be encouraged. We know that Christ is coming back again. We know that St. John’s can be here to greet him if we keep watch and remain steadfast in our discipleship. At their March meeting, members of the Church Council unanimously agreed to move forward with an ambitious plan to celebrate our 60th anniversary as a congregation and to ensure that we can celebrate 60 more. We will use our 60th anniversary as an opportunity to address the deferred maintenance at St. John’s and not be overwhelmed by our aging facilities. You will be hearing a lot more about this project in the next few months. The other thing we can do is keep inviting our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and classmates to join us at St. John’s. You and I know that God is meeting with people and offering them grace and mercy every single day through the ministries of our church. Let’s get busy inviting, welcoming, and connecting new people to the wonderful church we all love so much. As always, I am so grateful for the opportunity to be your pastor.

I recently preached a sermon about the return of Christ. It got me to thinking, I wonder if St. John’s will be here when Jesus comes again. Will we still be ringing the bell before worship? Will we be inviting our neighbors to come experience God’s amazing grace? Will the sound of children’s laughter in Sunday school fill the Savior’s ears when he returns? Will the youth be right in the middle of a service project? I obviously have no idea when Christ will come again, but I do know that whether St. John’s is still ministering when he does is largely up to you and me. Last week I attended a meeting with some of the elders of the United Methodist Church of Corpus Christi. We learned of a church who could no longer afford an elder and would be led by a local pastor. We were told of two churches that were going from full time pastors to part time pastors. One church is being adopted by a larger congregation – much like we have done for Bishop UMC. Sadly, one church has voted to disband. Their facility had deteriorated over time until it was no longer safe to inhabit.

EASTER LILIES CAN BE PURCHASED UNTIL APRIL 10

The Worship Committee invites you to order one or more Easter lilies for placement on the Altar on Easter Sunday. Order forms were placed in the worship bulletin last Sunday and will be available again this Sunday. Each lily is $15 and can be designated “in honor of, in memory of, or in celebration of” loved ones, an individual, group, or ministry. Those purchasing lilies can take them home after the Easter services or let the church deliver them to homebound members. The names of those purchasing lilies will be printed in the bulletin and also in the May Steeple Notes. Deadline to order: April 10 EASTER LILIE|S CAN BE PURCHASED Steeple Notes

2

APRIL 2014

Children’s Learning Center

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN

Easter Bake & Craft Sale The children and teachers at St. John’s Children’s Learning Center (CLC) are looking forward to April’s fun-filled activities. We will celebrate the week of April 711 as “Week of the Young Child.” Activities are planned every day of the week and we will end the week with a family event. The Pre-K will participate in a Trike-A-Thon fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. We were also very excited to have our Pre-K children join with the St. John’s children in the “How Great Thou ART” event. The two photos show children with their art projects, with help from Sheryl Calhoun.

Sunday, April 6, 2014 8:30 am – 12:30 pm St. John’s UMC Fellowship Hall Proceeds to Benefit Local and National Missions

UMW April Calendar Sunday, April 6: Easter Bake and Craft Sale, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Fellowship Hall. Lots of goodies and crafts for sale. Call UMW President Glenda Sanders to confirm your assistance at this special event. Tuesday, April 8: Ruth Circle, 9:45 a.m. in Fellowship Hall; program by Glenda Sanders. Monday, April 14: Naomi Quest, 7 p.m., at home of Jo Anne Wilshusen; program by Jo Anne and Judi Oestreich.

Final Lenten Luncheon April 9 The fifth and final Lenten Luncheon program will be held Wednesday, April 9, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. The Energizers will host the program, which begins with Holy Communion at 12 noon in the Sanctuary, then continues in the Community Life Building. An average crowd of about 45 has been attending. Everyone is invited. A love offering will be accepted to help defray the cost of the meal. Steeple Notes

3

APRIL 2014

YOUTH ASSIST WITH ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE

CHURCH CALENDAR APRIL Sunday, April 6: Fifth Sunday in Lent; Holy Communion at all worship services. Sunday, April 6: UMW Craft and Bake Sale in Fellowship Hall, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Come buy Easter crafts and enjoy the refreshments. Your support will be sincerely appreciated! Wednesday, April 9: Fifth and final Lenten Luncheon, 12 noon-1 p.m., hosted by the Energizers. Everyone is invited. Sunday, April 13: Passion Sunday worship services at 8:45 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11:15 a.m. Thursday, April 17: 6:30 p.m., Maundy Thursday observance with Communion, Community Life Building. Friday, April 18: 6:30 p.m., Good Friday service, Sanctuary. Saturday, April 19: 7 p.m., Holy Saturday--2-hour Historic Easter Vigil Service. Sunday, April 20: Easter worship services at 8:45 a.m., 10 a.m., and 11:15 a.m. will celebrate Christ’s resurrection. CHRIST HAS RISEN--HE HAS RISEN INDEED! Sunday, April 27: Second Sunday of Easter

St. John’s UMC observed Ash Wednesday March 5 with a morning and evening service in the Sanctuary. Special thanks to Vanessa Barton and Isaac Elliott for serving as acolytes. (Above) The two youth pose with Pastor Matt Pennington; (right) Pastor Matt makes the sign of the cross on their foreheads during the imposition of ashes.

Reception for Lyneve Shaver

MEMORIAL GIFTS Gifts given in memory, in celebration of, or in honor of family members, friends, and ministries are placed in St. John’s Memorial Fund. Current funds include Building, Choir, Scholarship, Youth, Worship, Capital Reserve, Bereavement, and Young Ministers’ Scholarship. Be sure to designate which fund should receive your gift. Gifts to the Memorial Fund are noted in Steeple Notes when they are received but may be given anonymously, if desired, by the donor. Please contact Becky Thurston at 991-4342, if questions. In loving memory of Elizabeth (Betty) Culton, sister of Peggy Laux, a gift to the Choir Fund from Mr. and Mrs. Dick Polaski of Neenah, WI.

A Reception on March 9 in Fellowship Hall helped church members thank Lyneve Shaver for her many years of service in the Nursery. Shown with Lyneve (second from right) are her husband Ivan (second from left) and church friends Johnny T. and Bobbie Davis. Thank you again, Lyneve, for your dedication to St. John’s children. Steeple Notes

In loving memory of David McDougal, brother of Darlene Duncan, who died Feb. 28 in Denver after a long illness, a gift to the Scholarship Fund from the Contemporary Christian Issues (CCI) Class.

4

APRIL 2014

UMM Pancake Supper Drew Large Crowd Thanks to everyone who supported the annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper! Proceeds support various UMM mission projects.

(Above) Manning the grill to cheerfully cook hundreds of tasty pancakes were Jack Pace and John Ballard. (Right) Bryan Thompson and John Zimmerman serve sausages and pancakes.

A group of happy diners pose for the camera.

Getting just the right amount of syrup takes determination!

Renewed Interest in UMW’s “Happy Cookers” Cookbook Newly Discovered Supply of 2005 Books Available for Purchase St. John’s UMW published a 50th Anniversary Recipe Book in 2005--a 168 page, hard-cover book of wonderful recipes by St. John’s members, family, and friends. It is entitled “St. John’s Happy Cookers” with a cover print of a picture of the Sanctuary and Bell Tower. Newer members are finding items featured in this book showing up at dinners and the like. Because they have enjoyed these items they have asked where they might find recipes for these. Church receptionist Robyn Swope, for instance, enjoyed the soup and seasoned crackers at a recent Lenten luncheon, and when she discovered the source of the recipes, expressed a desire to have a book. In checking around in nooks and crannies here at the church, UMW members last week discovered a source of additional books that they will make available for $10 each. Robyn purchased her copy and has volunteered to keep the books, while supplies last, in the front office for anyone who wants to purchase one. She will accept your cash or a check or money order made payable to St. John’s UMW. UMW will also have copies of the cookbook available this Sunday at the April 6 Easter Bake and Craft sale in Fellowship Hall. Steeple Notes

5

APRIL 2014

SAVE THE DATE! St. John’s UMC Vacation Bible School Monday-Friday, July 7-11 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It’s not too early to volunteer! Contact Sheryl Calhoun at [email protected] or 991-4342.

CAMPUS MINISTRY Campus Ministry meets the first and third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the CLB. The last meeting for the semester will be May 7, with the program resuming in September. Contact Pastor Matt for details.

More Conference Information

Come to the Mission Fair on Saturday, May 3, in Goliad Another opportunity for Corpus Christi District United Methodists to experience our Connection will be a special activity in Goliad, Texas, just a few miles up the road! Come to the Mission Fair on Saturday, May 3, 2014, from 1-4 p.m. at Goliad Memorial Auditorium, 924 So. US. Hwy 183. Lots of ministry booths, great ideas, and people to talk with about starting New Missions to reach others in our communities. Everyone is invited! (See notice, Page 16.) ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2014 Annual Conference will again be in Corpus Christi in June. Be looking for details of this historic meeting as the new Rio Texas Conference takes shape. UM CONNECTION United Methodist folks are “Connected” folks...in many ways. The most recent copy of the Conference Newspaper shares recent information. Contact Jo Anne Wilshusen, 9916244, one of our delegates to Annual Conference and our Lay Leader for story headlines and details.

Front flower beds of Community Life Building receive new plants, shrubs

Spring Planting!

(Continued from Page 1)

Pastor Ryan said, “All of our landscape plans include the use of waterwise, low-maintenance plantings.” The master plan is on display in the front office/information center, and those who want specific details about what plants can be planted and where can view the drawings. If you or your Sunday school class or discipleship group would like to schedule a day to implement a section of the plan or want to pay for the installation of a section of the plan, let Pastor Ryan know!

IRON MEN Event Calendar:

As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17

April 26--Paintball May 17--Kaboom Build Day IRON MEN--an event-driven ministry for men to help grow in the community and grow in Christ. Call Matt Pennington for details. Sharpening men • strengthening families • Growing in the Lord Steeple Notes

6

APRIL 2014

GREETERS NEEDED ON SUNDAYS If you enjoy greeting and welcoming folks with a handshake and a smile, please consider serving as a St. John’s UMC greeter one Sunday each month. Greeters (about 6-8 each Sunday) are needed at various locations around the church--under the bell tower, at the back entrance, in the area between the Children’s Building and Nursery, near the parking lot, and at the Parade Street entrance. The time frame is approximately 20 or so minutes between 8:25 and 8:45 a.m.; 9:4010 a.m.; and 10:50-11:15 a.m. as different groups of worshippers and Sunday School goers arrive. YOU are needed! Give the church office a call, 991-4342,

Can You Help Man the Welcome Center? Every Sunday before the benediction is offered at each worship service, the pastors invite guests and new members to go to the Welcome Center inside the Administration Building to ask questions, pick up additional information about St. John’s UMC, and pick up a candy-filled mug. Some guests also may need help finding a Sunday School class, nursery, or worship center. Volunteers are needed! Is God nudging you to help in the Welcome Center? The three time slots each Sunday when volunteers are needed are after the worship services: 9:45-10 a.m. 11-11:15 a.m., and 12:15-12:30 p.m. Sign up for a specific time slot and Sunday date to man the center! Call the church office at 991-4342.

Hospitality Is Everybody’s Business By Pastor Harold Onwiler

One of our members noted that we seem to have a lot of first time guests but few who return in future weeks. If that is the case, it is likely due to problems in the area of hospitality. The life blood of any church is hospitality; how people, members and guests alike, are welcomed and made to feel valued as they enter our campus. We are told that first time guests often decide whether or not they will return within ten minutes of the time they enter the parking lot. That means that the primary deciding factor in that decision is not our outstanding music or excellent preaching, but rather their first impressions even before the worship service begins. First impressions are formed as people enter the parking lot. Is the campus attractive and well maintained? Is there adequate parking? Are there enough places reserved for guests? Once out of the car, did someone offer a warm greeting and assist them to find their way to the worship center or Sunday school classes? Did they have an opportunity to meet at least six people who made a point to learn their name? Did someone take an interest in them and offer to sit with them? Did they receive a heartfelt invitation to return? Better yet, did someone offer to take them to lunch following the service? We, here at St. John’s, are striving to improve our hospitality skills. The hospitality committee is seeking persons who will take turns serving as official greeters. We are developing a “welcome and information center” where first time guests may receive a gift and learn more about the church and its ministries. These people are being trained to do a better job week by week. We need more folks who will accept these ministries and discover the satisfaction and joy that goes with them. However, hospitality is not just the business of a committee or of a select few who make that part of their ministry. We need to have everyone wearing their best host and hostess hats all of the time. It is time for all who love this church to step up and lead by example. After all, we are not just welcoming guests to our church, we are actually in the business of introducing them to Jesus Christ who is the head of the church. The manner in which we welcome, or fail to welcome, a guest may make a difference in whether a person eventually comes to experience saving grace of Jesus Christ or they get turned off by the church and Christianity in general. Hospitality is our business. Let’s strive for excellence in our welcoming skills.

“We’re not just welcoming guests to church... we are introducing them to Jesus Christ.” Steeple Notes

7

APRIL 2014

HOW GREAT THOU “ART” WAS GREAT! By Sheryl Calhoun, Children’s Director

Beautiful artwork!

Kendra Tamez and Rowan Reed

Friends and parents admire glittered eggs

Many, many thanks to all who helped make the art event HOW GREAT THOU “ART” a great success for the kids. If you came to St. John’s last Saturday, March 22, you were greeted by 80 kids creating art all over the campus! Splashes of color filled each room whether the creation involved sand, string, paint, or any of the other mediums. A huge helping of gratitude goes to my friend Judy Southworth who helped me throughout every stage of planning by shopping, project testing, and Pinterest searching – but the greatest help was sharing my enthusiasm and excitement for the event. She even got her parents involved – thanks to Scott and Jane Kee for all you did to help! Thanks to the artists who led the kids in creating string art crosses, mosaics, and more: Edie Henson, Lourdes Vargas Troche, Ann Reimer, Christian and Stefani Schomaker, Jane Kee, Judy Southworth, Samantha and Ron Waldrop, and Sonja Mixson; and to their assistants: Suzy Shepard, Mary Catherine Ocker, Gerri Cason, Danna Sharpe, Jo Anne Wilshusen, and Julie Fomenko. Thanks to Connie and Grant Haralson and Donna Normand for making the Creative Concessions area a sight to behold! We are blessed with people who can take a suggested idea and run with itspilled paint displays and cupcakes in every color of the rainbow were no problem for this trio! And did you see the rice crispy paintbrushes? Those cute treats were created by Connie Hahn and Mary Catherine Ocker. Sales in the concessions area were handled by Carol Keener and Suzy Bergstrom. And last but not least, a special thanks to Phyllis Jones, for filling and frilling many bags of Creative Crunch!

AND MORE THANKS...

Malia and Max Schomaker

To Cathi Garza for taking amazing photos and making the photo booth a fun activity for the kids. To Jenifer Pichinson for leading an adult class that discussed art and how it speaks to us! To those who painted hands red, shook glitter on painted eggs and oversaw the preschool art projects: James and Dana Garza, Sue Hoyt, Hanna Elliott, Debi Francis, Marie Gonzalez, and Katy Beseda. To those who helped the kids with the make and take projects on the patio, even when the project was less than perfect: Adela Garcia, Cynthia Herin, Chris Knioum, Robyn Cobb, Lyneve Shaver, Christy Zamora, Shirley Thornton, and Carole Salsberry.

At left: Robert Garza helped serve the breakfast buffet as guests toured the art gallery Steeple Notes

8

APRIL 2014

Pastor Matt and son Nate get ready to make a handprint

And Mo re A ppl aus Elijah, Jeremiah, and Isaiah Tamez e!! For painting hands and helping kids create our Kingdom Wall: Jannelle Reed and Stephanie Ashcroft. For the ladies who greeted our artists and handled registration: thanks to Kay Beaver, Judi Ostreich, and Jennifer Kray. For helping the artists sign in and create the pennant banners for the gallery on Sunday – thanks to Ouida Richardson, Eric Schwartz, and Margaret Schwartz. To Sharon Staiger for providing a nursery for the up and coming artists – thank you. To Debra Scott Brown, Doug Brown, Frank Olevitch, Brian Morales, Trey Mendoza, Tiffany Lentz, and Robin Blue for providing music in the Melody Café--your talent was enjoyed by many people! To our youth – thanks for helping and making yourselves known as the masters of the new popcorn machine! Austin Aguilar, Austin Mertz, Michelle Gregory, Hayden Calhoun, Abbigail Thompson, Victoria Garcia, and Jasper Cable. To LaDale Ebert for every table and chair that was moved, set up and taken down – thanks for staging the event, my friend! To the teachers in the CLC who helped involve the 3 and 4 year olds in the day school- thanks for your cooperation and interruption in your teaching for our project. To the ever loyal and hard working United Methodist Men and all those who contributed food items– thanks for handling the breakfast on Sunday morning. When I look back at the event, I am humbled by how many people follow God’s nudging to serve. Thanks to everyone for the creation and execution of this new event!

Austin Mertz, Jasper Cable, Michelle Gregory, Victoria Garcia, Abbigail Thompson, Hayden Calhoun, and Albert Aguilar

Dana and Jake Garza

The Schomakers gather up artwork

(L) Cameron Ainsworth had lots of fun in the photo booth; Lyneve Shaver and Sophia Haralson enjoy a laugh; children create project. (R) Enjoying a special treat is Colby Kray. Steeple Notes

9

APRIL 2014

YOUTH NEWS

If you can help furnish a meal for the Youth program or provide funds for scholarships that will help one or more youth participate in a special event, please contact Albert Aguilar.

Friendship Class

Friendship Class member Orby Roots celebrated his 87th birthday with lots of friends, including Friendship Class members (l-r) Karen Van Kirk, wife Rilla, Jo Anne Wilshusen, and Dorothy Tullos.

By Albert Aguilar, Director of Youth Ministries Greetings St. John’s, Here’s an update on the great things that are happening with our amazing youth group. March has been a busy month for us and we have continued to see growth in our ministry. We had our first beach party to kick off March and we all had a blast! A special thanks to two of our college students, Austin Mertz and Brandon Broyles, for going out early to set up the volleyball net and for making a fire to cook hot dogs. Spring break saw great participation by our youth in Paintball, lunch, and a movie. After spring break, we were able to do some cleanup at Montclair Elementary School helping to pick up trash and clean some shelves in the classrooms. The students were also able to enjoy a game of Ultimate Frisbee with our friends from Grace UMC in the rain! 4 Corners has continued to provide our students different ways to grow in their faith through Community, Outreach, Mission, and Worship. Our great leaders have been doing a fantastic job of discipling our youth. Confirmation Class has also started and will run through April 27; please be in prayer for our Confir-mands as they make an important decision in their faith. A couple of important dates for April: • Youth Worship Conference is April 4-6 and St. John’s is hosting most of the event. This will be a great opportunity for our students to dive in deeper to the many forms of worship. • Maundy Thursday Campout, April 17-18: we will be going up to Enchanted Rock at Fredericksburg; limited spots available so get with Youth Director Albert Aguilar if you are interested or want more details.

The Friendship Class is continuing its study about the Holy Spirit. We are learning how the Spirit can change arenas of our entire life—our emotions, souls, relationships, our body, and even our vocations. We are learning that if we can consciously build the Holy Spirit into our daily lives, we can change the persons we are and how we relate to others. We become interested in others, allow God’s love to pour into our lives and into the lives of others, and give up our self-centered ways, realizing we are made for community. Come join us as we continue to learn more about this awesome, transforming Gift that God gave to us This month, we celebrated the birthdays of our faithful Secretary/ Treasurer, Marilyn Henderson, and our long-time friend, Orby Roots. We were pleased to host the March 19 Lenten Luncheon, and we look forward to continuing to observe the Lenten season with our church family. If you would like to check out the Friendship Class, you can find us in the Conference Room at 10:00 a.m. each Sunday morning. Steeple Notes

10

APRIL 2014

(Not Pictured) John and Judy Edwards joined St. John’s March 30 by transfer from Lakehills (TX) UMC. John is retired US Coast Guard and a pastor, and Judy is a retired teacher and a pastor. They reside at 15809 Almeria Ave. (78418). They are attending the CCI Class. Judy said they lived here many years ago and attended St. John’s then, adding they are glad to be returning to Corpus Christi.

WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS

Catherine Vitek joined a few months ago but did not have a photo. Welcome, Catherine!

Julie Fomenko and her son, Luke Alexander Fomenko, almost 12 and a 6th grader at ECDC, joined St. John’s on March 2 by transfer from a local church of another denomination. Julie, an RN, is a professor at TAMU-CC. She is married and the family lives at 522 Monette Dr. (78412). She says “we are glad to be here.” Welcome, Julie and Luke!

See more photos of New Members, Page 15

News from the Harvest Fields --Mission At Its Best-THE FEW — THE PROUD — THE UMM We meet each Wednesday morning at 6:30 a.m. for breakfast and fellowship in Fellowship Hall. Come stay as long as you can. If you have to leave, no problem. We would love for you to join us and share in this great work. Card Ministry finished the first three months of the year with just under 300 cards sent. Under last year’s record setting pace but we are so thankful for all of you that support this ministry. Keep the requests for cards coming. Like everything we do, it only works with your support. We all look at ourselves as Servants while on our way to the Cross--determined to make Disciples of all men. 2014 Shrove Tuesday has come and gone and the Pancake Supper, as always, was a huge Success. Thanks to all of you who participated. As always, the people who came to support us all said they were well

pleased with the fellowship and the food. Jerry Harrison with his famous “mixer” is what makes those pancakes so light and fluffy we have to hold them down or they float away. Every other Saturday we are helping with feeding the homeless a noon meal...hot dogs with all the trimmings. Thank you, Fred, for giving us this chance. Come on out and lend a hand. We now have rotating cooks, Grant Haralson, Robert Garza, and Rick Darst. Come critique the traveling chefs--they will be changing each week and will be trying to outdo each other. Come cast your vote. You will not be disappointed with any of them. They are great and their assistants are wonderful also.

Steeple Notes

11

APRIL 2014

Did someone say the Conference youth will have another event at our church? Yes, they did! Some 200+ youth will be gathering at St. John’s for the “Youth Worship Conference” this Friday, April 4-6. Is UMM proud of them? Just you wait! We are honored to do the cooking for them for their Saturday dinner on April 5. If you would like to help us, come on out and see what the youth are doing. If you are worried about them, come on out and see for yourself that the youth are alive and well. To help, contact Johnny T. Davis at 361-980-1557 or 361-548-6001. Thanks. We are getting out of the bleachers and refuse to be spectators. We love the action and invite all you men to come and be part of the BEST OF THE BEST -- THE UMM. We promise to keep on keeping on. All we ask is that you ...HELP US HELP OTHERS!

PHOTOS FROM AROUND THE CHURCH! This year’s Lenten Luncheon series, which began March 12 and will conclude April 9, has drawn from 42-55 members, friends, and guests each Wednesday noon. Hosts for the luncheons have been CCI and Word-to-word classes, Friendship Class, Seekers Class, United Methodist Women, and (coming up April 9) the Energizers.

Donna King, LaDale Ebert, and Sheryl Calhoun serve the soup bowl as guests eye the fruit bowl.

Charles Teas, Jack and Sherrie Johnson, and Lynn Bridges from the word-to-Word class help prepare salad bowls on March 12.

Sandy Pair from St. Luke’s UMC poses with her friend Pat Steinocher from St. John’s.

(Above) Shirley Thornton from the Friendship Class and (left) Wilson Calhoun from the Seekers Class share their devotionals.

Crowd gathers for tasty luncheon fare and good fellowship. Special thanks again to Dorothy Tullos for placing the Lenten centerpieces on the dining tables.

Annie Hatfield and Joyce White of the CCI class pose with friend and Karen Felts (far right).

Unification of Southwest Texas Conference, Rio Grande Conference Proceeding By Jo Anne Wilshusen, Lay Leader

Headlines continue to say “New Conference affords us renewed energy, insight.” The unification of the Southwest Texas and Rio Grande Conferences will result in a new name--The Rio Texas Conference. Ralph Thompson, Southwest Texas Conference Lay Leader said: “The Rio Texas Conference represents a fresh start at mission development, welcoming, discipleship, and evangelism with one sole purpose-to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Our new conference affords us opportunity to build bridges where none have previously existed, touching the lives of those who have not been together at God’s Holy Table.” Ralph has been in touch with Sandra Nieto, Rio Grande Conference Lay leader. They agree that “God indeed has a new thing” for us in the new Rio Texas Annual Conference. Steeple Notes

12

APRIL 2014

Prayer Requests

REMINDERS

Please pray for those listed on St. John’s UMC prayer list. If you want to add someone to the list or remove a name from the list, please call the church office at 991-4342.

Grieving: Family of Fred Blackmar; Family of Dorothy Thomas; Family of Justin Arredondo; Family of Dilly Sanderfer; Family and Friends of the Rev. Dick Peltz.

Celebrations: Marriage of Erhart and Abby Asaad; Birth of Nathaniel David Chambers-Keener; Birth of Caleb Matthew Buss

On-Going Prayer Concerns All Deployed Military Bishop UMC St. John’s Youth Group Rev. Paul Allan Women’s Emmaus Walk #1755 Marcella Alegria Maegan Alexander Catie Alford Richard Atkinson Joan Trapani Benham Benjamin Bettie Blackwell Shawn Salvo Boyton Betty Brown Doug Brown Pancho Cadena Sheila Campbell Humberto Cantu Frances Clark Jack Collilns Bud Corman Robin Cross Janet Dailey Bobbie Davis Phyllis Donohue Debbye Dooley Anthony Dreier Jim Karen Felts & Family

Jenny Bean Franks Teresa Ferench Julie Galbraith Armando Garcia Dan Garcia Mayah Garcia Dorrinda Baird-Garza Garza Family Randall Gregory Linda Haby Trey Hauck Bill Henderson Emerie Hernandez Wayne Hodge Roy Kamo Trudy Kimball Nathan Lankford Shana Larson & Family Liz Luna LaVerna Martin Ken McWhorter Hollis & Anna Neese Judi Oestreich Lindsey Olevitch Carlos Oliva Suzi Oxley Miles and Martin Pace Rev. Trudy Paul Linda Pepper Noe and Mary Lou Perez

Rosemary Pizio Melissa Plumb Alfonso Ramirez Warren and Sue Rees Pat Richards Christina Riojas Scott Robinson Rumley Family Donna Shaw Alex Salvo Shook Jean Shivers Avery Smith Lauren Snell Marion Snell Lisa Spencer Tim Strain Debb Sullivan Peggy Sweet Shelley Tedder Carol Teeple & Family Robert Thornton John Thurston Esther Unruh & Parents Daniel & Jill Verdin Catherine Vitek Wagenschein Family Alice Wells Joyce White Mary Ann Wolf

• An emergency contact number has been established for St. John’s UMC church family to call during times when the church office is not open. The number is 361-236-5651. This is intended for church members to always have an easy way to reach church staff in an emergency situation.

REPORT FROM OUR TRUSTEES Chairman John Strain reports: “The Trustees have been busy with the physical assets of St. John’s. Recent projects include replacement of the door glass in the Administration Building, new wireless microphones for the Sanctuary and Community Life Building, Phase One of the master landscape plan, and new cabinets for the CLC. Thanks to Ernie for refinishing the floors in the CLB entry and hallway. Next up, the stage, bathrooms, and kitchen. ”

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)

OTHER PRAYERS: President Obama and our country’s leaders; abused and neglected children; all military personnel and their families; our homebound; the homeless, and the hungry. If you have an emergency during non-office hours, please call 361-236-5651. If you need pastoral care or have a prayer request, please call the church office at 9914342 or email [email protected]

Steeple Notes

• If you change your address, phone number, or email address, please let the staff know so your church membership file can be corrected and mailings won’t be interrupted.

For mothers with preschoolers and school-age children; Meet on 2nd & 4th Mondays from 9:15-11:30 a.m., at the Asbury UMC gymnasium (7501 S. Staples). Come for food, fun, & fellowship; Childcare available. Meeting Dates: 4/14, 4/28, 5/12. Contact Samantha Waldrop for details at [email protected]

13

APRIL 2014

APRIL CALENDAR FOR ENERGIZERS

APRIL BIRTHDAYS

Wednesday, April 2 and April 16, 1:30 p.m. Join this fun bunch for a crazy afternoon of dominoes! Thursday, April 3, 2:30 p.m., Sing-A-Long at Holmgreen Center; meet at the church at 2 p.m. We’ll take Easter gifts to our friends there. Sunday, April 6, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. Lots of pretty Easter arts and crafts and goodies for sale. Let’s support the UMW! Wednesday, April 9, 12 noon--Energizers will host the final Lenten Luncheon in the CLB; communion, lunch, and devotional. Bring your friends and special guests. The menu will be Taco Salad. Please bring desserts and salads. Saturday, April 12, Tour of Rockport Homes, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call Suzy at 5494336 to reserve a seat; will leave church at 10 a.m., eat in Rockport, and see the Tour of Homes. Bring funds for lunch and $20 for the tour. Wednesday, April 23, 10:30 a.m.--New Wednesday study, “Fearless” by Max Lucado; conference room; study book $6.

2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 13 14 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 25 27

Wednesday, April 23 and April 30, 12:30 p.m.--Come to Classroom 2 for a relaxing afternoon of art, coloring, and making Mother’s Day cards for our homebound. .

LOOKING AHEAD: Friday, May 9, at 6 p.m: Disney on Ice--100 Years of Magic. Call Suzy Shepard for details.

NOTE: If your birthday is not listed, or if there’s an error in the birthday list, please call the church at 991-4342 or Card Ministry chair Gloria Caravantes, 852-4427.

Reminder: April 5 UMW Event

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:

A study entitled “The Call: Living Sacramentally, Walking Justly” will be offered this Saturday, April 5, at First United Methodist Church, 900 S. Shoreline, by FUMC United Methodist Women. All are invited! The study will be led by Rev. J. Paul Bruhn from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; registration $15, with lunch included, if space is still available. Call FUMC for details. Based on the book by George McClain, Tilda Norbert, and Nancy Kruh (editor), the study offers tools to deepen spiritual identity, engagement in community and mission, looking at the sacramental understandings of baptism and communion, and lifting up models of response to God’s call. Stories of call and response are shared from a wide array of persons from different walks of life.

Communion Stewards are needed to take communion to our homebound members once each month. Please call Suzy Shepard and let her know you are interested. Also, the Care and Bereavement Committee needs individuals who can visit with and deliver goodies to our homebound each month; includes some hospital visitation. The Traditional Worship Committee continues to seek individuals who might commit to one month a year to prepare the Holy Communion elements for the first Sunday of the month, set them on the altar, and be responsible for both traditional services. Steeple Notes

28 30

Marcia Caravantes, Jennifer Staiger, Carly Clark Bruce Best, Charlene Hardy Lindsey Jensen Joanie Spencer Coughran, T. J. Shipp, Judy Tree Alberto Garza Ron George, Jo Ann Lamorey Jo Ann Jordan Julie Repka Shelley Tedder Holly Veit Robyn Cobb Chuck Francis, Bill McNair John Crumpler Walter Bransford, Carol Clark Alex Brown Lori Collins Tim Brownlee Linda Eichberger, Margaret Schwartz Jerry Epperly, Sherrie Johnson, Hannah Steen Carol Keener Bob Mayes

14

APRIL 2014

Meet More New Members Born on March 18 and in church both Sundays since then, Caleb Buss is one of our youngest members with perfect attendance! Held by mom Lauren Bates Buss, Caleb is pictured with big brother Brayden and dad Eric. Welcome to Caleb from his church family!

INFANT BAPTISM--Mahanna Reagan Grubert, daughter of Alison and Jason Grubert, was baptized in early March by Pastors Ryan and Matt. Joining St. John’s UMC in March by transfer of membership from another Methodist church were David and Mary Catherine Ocker and their daughter Madilynn. David is a farmer. Not pictured is their son Henry, who was in the nursery during this worship service. The family resides at 8817 Marauder (78414). Welcome!

See more photos of New Members, Page 11

THE SHAPE OF OUR CHURCH FEB 2014

Year-to-Date

CHURCH ATTENDANCE

Budgeted Receipts (Income) $ 67,679.42

$ 135,358.84

Pledges Made Pledges Paid Pledges (+ or --) Total Gifts Received:

$100,554.82 $ 96,358.40 $ (4,196.42) $ 122,723.95

(Monthly Aver) 8:45 a.m. *

$ 2,926.50

Apportionments Paid:

$ 50,277.41 $ 48,647.70 $ (1,629.71) $ 62,814.55 $ 1,463.25

Thank you for your commitment to God and to this church through your gifts and offerings. Through the generous and sacrificial giving of church members, friends, and visitors during 2013, St. John’s paid all 2013 apportionments, exceeded missional giving, and earned the 5-Star Church award. Steeple Notes

15

APRIL 2014

MAR 2014 MAR 2013

72

81

10 a.m. ** 11:15 a.m. ***

102 101

127 118

Sunday School Visitors

151 44

125 39

Campus Ministry

10

--

* Early Traditional *** Late Traditional

** Contemporary

Let’s Go to Sunday School! Sunday School classes and special studies are offered every Sunday morning at St. John’s UMC. Christian education helps grow our understanding of the Bible and helps form our spiritual lives. Check out classes offered for children, youth, and adults. Children: 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Age groups: Preschool (3-4-5 year olds), Room 9, Children’s Building; Kinder-2nd, Room 5 upstairs by Fellowship Hall;, 3rd-5th, Room 4 upstairs by Fellowship Hall. Nursery: Available 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (ages 3 and younger), Community Life Building Youth: 11:15 a.m., 6th-8th, Youth Building; 9th-12th, Youth Building. Adults: 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Contemporary Christian Issues: 10 a.m., Admin. Bldg, Rm 1 Faith Links (special needs): 10 a.m., Admin. Bldg, Rm 4 Word to word: 10 a.m., Youth Building Friendship: 10 a.m., Admin. Bldg. Conference Room Seekers: 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m., Upstairs Fellowship Hall Growing in Christ (for parents with young children), 11:15 a.m. Admin. Bldg. Conference Room Bible Why’s: 11:15 a.m., Admin. Bldg. Rm 1

St. John’s United Methodist Church Rev. Ryan Barnett, Senior Pastor Rev. Matthew Pennington, Executive Pastor Rev. Dr. Harold Onwiler, Associate Pastor Rev. Pat Gideon, FUMC, Bishop Albert Aguilar, Youth Director Kim Bryce, Traditional Music Director Sheryl Calhoun, Children’s Director Marcia Caravantes, Organist Adela Garcia, Children’s Learning Center Director Connie Haralson, Administrative Assistant Brian Morales, Contemporary Worship Director Ernie Pena, Maintenance Debra Scott-Brown, Contemporary Worship Director Suzy Shepard, Care & Concern Director Sharon Staiger, Nursery Director Robin Swope, Receptionist Becky Thurston, Business Administrator

Connect with St. John’s UMC!

www.sjmethodist.com www.facebook.com/SJUMC Twitter: @ stjohnmethodist

Steeple Notes

OFFICE HOURS: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday through Friday Food Pantry, 9 a.m.-Noon, Wednesday and Thursday CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER--361-991-4780 CHURCH CONTACT INFORMATION Church: 361-991-4342; FAX: 361-991-1840 E-mail Address: [email protected] Website:

www.sjmethodist.com

SUNDAY WORSHIP SCHEDULE 8:45 a.m. Traditional Worship (Sanctuary) 10:00 a.m.Contemporary Worship (Community Life Bldg.) 11:15 a.m. Traditional Worship (Sanctuary) INFORMATION ABOUT STEEPLE NOTES Steeple Notes, a monthly publication of St. John’s United Methodist Church, is emailed to members and visitors as a PDF document. Printed copies are available around the church. If you would like to be added to email distribution, please call Connie Haralson in the church office, 991-4342, and provide your email address. Deadline for the May 2014 issue will be Friday, April 25, with publication on or about May 1, 2014. Editor: Chris Garcia --991-2784; [email protected]

16

APRIL 2014